What Good Shall I Do This Day

A fun work-for-hire gig for Chronicle Books. The idea was to craft a guided journal based on the philosophy and maxims of Benjamin Franklin, who (according to his autobiography) asked himself daily “what good shall I do this day?”

Roadmap

Helping the founders of Roadtrip Nation and their passionate staff turn over a decade's worth of educational advocacy and absorbing documentaries into a book was inspiring, enriching and energizing. I love this book and the entire team behind it. And hey, it's a New York Times bestseller!

How to Hang a Picture

An informative and illustrated guidebook detailing everything you need to know about hanging art in the home, office, and beyond. Packed with lush watercolor illustrations and a multitude of how-to graphics, How to Hang a Picture walks you through the easiest and most affordable ways to turn any wall display into a hallmark of personal style. Co-authored and designed by Suzanne LaGasa.

A Compendium of Collective Nouns

Along with designing much of the look and feel of the Harry Potter film franchise, London-based Woop Studios have been exploring the mystery of collective nouns in a series of popular prints and posters. This book collects dozens and dozens of their most popular images.

Chronicle Books asked me to write the text for the book, which explores the etymologies of such phrases as "a murder of crows," and "a neverthriving of jugglers," among two thousand others. This one was a lot of fun to write.

Lincoln Memorial

Lincoln Memorial tells the story of one of America's most iconic landmarks, from the tangled politics and creative forces behind its construction, through its storied history as a rallying point in the struggle for equality. Featuring stunning watercolors by Chad Gowey as well as historical timelines and the words of some of Lincoln's most famous speeches.

The Good Fortune Cookie

Chronicle Books asked me to write this follow-up to 2012's Amazing Story Generator. This time, instead of writing prompts, I was asked to supply a bucket-load of interchangeable fortunes--perfect for stuffing into homemade fortune cookies.

The Amazing Story Generator

How to Swear Around the World

Linguists postulate that the average person uses "taboo" words eighty to ninety times a day, so why not mix it up a little? This irreverent guide will give you something ill-mannered to say no matter what corner of the globe you're in.